Weather
Northern New England Winter Snow: Mountain Areas Average 125+ Inches
Caribou, ME – Winter weather is approaching northern New England, where mountainous portions of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont historically average more than 125 inches of snow annually, according t
By Avery Collins · 2026-10-26T16:00:31.517Z
Caribou, ME – Winter weather is approaching northern New England, where mountainous portions of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont historically average more than 125 inches of snow annually, according to federal climate records. As colder weather approaches, forecasters are highlighting the significant differences in snowfall and winter hazards across the region.
According to the National Weather Service office in Caribou, Maine, a Monday, October 26, Winter Weather Preparedness Week announcement highlights the dangers of heavy snow, freezing rain, extreme cold and hazardous travel throughout northern New England.
NOAA's average annual snowfall map, based on climate normals from 1991 through 2020, shows substantial differences between coastal communities, inland valleys and higher elevations.
Coastal areas of Maine typically receive approximately 50 to 75 inches of snow annually, while mountainous sections of western Maine, northern New Hampshire and Vermont can average 125 to 150 inches or more.
These amounts represent historical annual averages rather than a snowfall forecast for the upcoming winter.
The Weather Service warns that winter precipitation can create dangerous conditions even in locations that receive less snowfall.
Along the coast, storms frequently transition between snow, sleet, freezing rain and rain, increasing the potential for slippery roads and hazardous travel.
Heavy, wet snow and accumulating ice can bring down trees and power lines, potentially causing widespread power outages.
Extreme cold also creates risks of frostbite and frozen pipes, while coastal storms can produce damaging winds, flooding and dangerous surf.
Powerful winter systems known as nor'easters can affect multiple New England states, bringing combinations of heavy precipitation, strong winds and coastal impacts.
The agency emphasized that winter weather commonly affects northern New England from November through early April.
Residents are encouraged to prepare emergency supplies, monitor official forecasts and plan ahead for winter travel.
While no specific winter storm was announced in Monday's preparedness notice, officials are reminding residents that dangerous conditions can develop quickly during the colder months.